Newport, Kentucky, November 11, 2025
Newport, Kentucky is welcoming the return of Winter Nights & River Lights, an enchanting festival that brightens the Purple People Bridge with colorful LED lights. Kicking off on November 14, the event represents the city’s dedication to community spirit, featuring activities like the Wish Tree program to support local children and seniors. This family-friendly celebration will run nightly through the winter months, inviting everyone to enjoy the light displays and foster inclusive participation in this beloved seasonal event.
Newport Celebrates Holiday Spirit with Winter Nights & River Lights
Join Newport’s Festive Season with a Family-Friendly Event
Newport, Kentucky – The City of Newport is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated return of Winter Nights & River Lights, set to illuminate the iconic Purple People Bridge beginning on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 6 p.m. This marks the inaugural festival since Newport assumed ownership of the bridge, reflecting the city’s commitment to fostering community spirit and connection during the festive season.
The celebration will kick off with remarks from Newport Mayor Tom Guidugli Jr. and culminate in the ceremonial lighting of the bridge, showcasing thousands of colorful LED lights that span across the Ohio River. This free, family-friendly event is designed to invite community engagement and attract visitors from far and wide, enhancing Newport’s role as a hub for local events and innovation.
Community and Civic Engagement at Its Best
The Winter Nights & River Lights event does more than just adorn the bridge with lights. It exemplifies how local government can partner with community initiatives to enrich civic life. The festival features a Wish Tree program, allowing attendees to select tags that represent the gift wishes of local children and seniors. This philanthropic aspect encourages personal initiative and showcases how individual goodwill can create lasting impact within the community.
Accessibility for All
Open nightly throughout the winter months, Winter Nights & River Lights allows families and individuals to enjoy the stunning light displays and take in the picturesque views of the skyline and riverfront. Parking will be available near both bridge entrances, ensuring accessibility for all who wish to participate in this memorable seasonal event. By keeping the event free, Newport fosters an inclusive atmosphere that encourages wide community participation.
A Bridge Connecting Communities
The Purple People Bridge, officially known as the Newport Southbank Bridge, has a long history as a connector between Newport, Kentucky, and Cincinnati, Ohio. By assuming ownership from Southbank Partners in August 2025, Newport is set to enhance its legacy as a walkable landmark, vital for community activities and events. This move underscores the potential for reduced bureaucracy to lead to more engaging community gatherings, ensuring that local traditions thrive.
Event Highlights and Features
Visitors can anticipate an evening filled with enchanting lights, festive displays, and opportunities to support local children through the Wish Tree program. Families are encouraged to bundle up and take full advantage of the surrounding riverfront businesses, adding to the local economy and showcasing the spirit of partnership in community engagement.
Conclusion: Celebrate Community Together
Winter Nights & River Lights stands as a beacon of what can be achieved when local leaders, organizations, and community members collaborate effectively. As Newport ushers in the holiday season, residents and visitors alike are encouraged to partake in this vibrant event. Supporting local initiatives like this one not only fosters a sense of community but also highlights the individual contributions that make our neighborhoods a better place to live, work, and celebrate.
FAQ
What is Winter Nights & River Lights?
Winter Nights & River Lights is an annual holiday event featuring thousands of colorful LED lights and festive displays on the Purple People Bridge, offering a free, family-friendly experience that draws visitors from across the region.
When does the event start?
The event will commence on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 6 p.m., with the ceremonial lighting of the bridge.
How long will the event run?
Winter Nights & River Lights will remain open nightly through the winter months.
Is there an admission fee?
The event is free and open to the public.
Where can I park?
Parking is available near both bridge entrances.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Winter Nights & River Lights |
| Location | Purple People Bridge, Newport, Kentucky |
| Opening Night | Friday, November 14, 2025, at 6 p.m. |
| Features | Thousands of LED lights, festive displays, Wish Tree program |
| Duration | Open nightly through the winter months |
| Admission | Free and open to the public |
| Parking | Available near both bridge entrances |
Now Happening on X
- @1033Country (November 8, 2025, 12:00 AM): Railbird Festival is set for June 6th and 7th at The Red Mile in Lexington, featuring music, bourbon, and great vibes; tune in all weekend for chances to win tickets with hourly keywords from 8am to midnight. View on X
- @theTDN (November 6, 2025, 10:42 AM): Keeneland, partnering with Cross Gate Gallery, will host its 13th annual Sporting Art Auction on November 13, 2025, at 4 p.m. ET in the Keeneland Sales Pavilion, celebrating local art and equestrian culture. View on X
- @SParkerRealtor (November 7, 2025, 8:53 AM): November in Lexington offers the best activities, restaurants, and family fun this fall; comment “GUIDE” for a comprehensive Lexington Fall Guide packed with favorite spots and local recommendations. View on X
- @Schlafly (November 8, 2025, 1:37 AM): The Full Moon Festival is this Saturday from 12-8 pm, featuring live music from DJ Red I HiFi, School of Rock, Barrelhouse Sinners, Flip Side & Friends, and Al Holliday & Band, inviting everyone to enjoy the festivities. View on X
- @PtreeCorners (November 8, 2025, 11:02 AM): Join an unforgettable night of Americana music on November 13 at 8 PM at the Red Clay Music Foundry with Kelsey Waldon and She Returns From War; this free event promises great company and local talent. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Lexington Legends to Launch Legendary Festival of Lights
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
